One Thomas County Central High School athlete has scored recognition in the Wendy’s High School Heisman program. Senior Lauren Pearson, 17, has been named the school’s winner.
“I feel honored and thankful for the selection because I get to represent my high school in the competition,” Pearson said.
Pearson plays football and soccer. She is active in the school’s Future Business Leaders of America, National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and F?FA organizations.
“Lauren is an outstanding athlete,” TCCHS Assistant Head Football Coach Bill Wilhelm, who is Pearson’s kicking coach, said. “She is a joy to coach and is still learning the ‘ins and out’ of the game. It has been refreshing coaching her in that she wants to learn and doesn’t think she already knows it all. I’m pleased that she received this award. It is well deserved.”
TCCHS Guidance Counselor Melissa Rodgers is “excited to recognize” Pearson as the school’s selectee.
“She is an asset to our school, both in the classroom and on the soccer and football fields,” Rodgers said.
Though Pearson did not advance as a state finalist, as a school winner she will receive a certificate and a Wendy’s High School Heisman patch.
Wendy’s High School Heisman was created in 1994 by Wendy’s founder Dave Thomas, who dropped out of high school at age 15 to work full-time, per the award press release. Though he became a very successful entrepreneur, Thomas didn’t want other youths to follow his example – not finish high school or attend college – and expect the same success. At age 61, he received his GED, which inspired him to create the program as a way to celebrate the achievements of America’s youths.
To date, more than 600,000 high school students have been honored for their dedication to academics, athletics, and helping their communities. For more information, visit the website www.WendysHeisman.com.
Pearson, who heard about the scholarship through her school’s guidance office, encourages other students to take interest in opportunities like the Wendy’s High School Heisman.
“Please keep an active relationship with your guidance counselor to be aware of scholarship opportunities,” she said.